Ministers statements: eating disorders
Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (12:26): Eating disorders are often masked behind cultural symbols of thinness and idealised beauty. Too often early symptoms are overlooked or dismissed as diet trends, and by the time help arrives, it can be too late. In Victoria the Allan Labor government is taking strong action to change this. In February this year we launched the eating disorders intensive at-home program at the Alfred, a world-first early intervention service for young people battling eating disorders. As an alternative to hospital admission, the program runs for between two and six weeks and brings care into the home so young people can stay connected to their daily routines and support networks. A multidisciplinary team including mental health clinicians, nurses, dietitians and peer workers works closely with the young people and their families on nutritional recovery, mealtime support and physical and mental health care. This service is part of the Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy 2024–2031, which is backed by $31 million of investment from our government in early intervention, community-based care, and research and data collection. I want to acknowledge the courage of lived-experience advocates like Portia Michau, whose personal story has shone a light on the devastating impacts of eating disorders and the need for real change. Portia’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a real person fighting for their life. The Allan Labor government will always stand with Victorians battling complex eating disorders, ensuring they can get the support they need when and where they need it.